April 29th, 2023 HELLO, Brothers of The Mighty Fourth District: The Heart of Omega To: Brother Mark Shaw, Fourth District Talent Hunt Chair, Brothers of Xi Alpha, Theta Psi and Gamma Lambda Chapters, and the Men of The Mighty Fourth District: The Heart of Omega, to the Talent Hunt Contestants, parents, support teams, and guest, I greet you in the name of my Lord and Savior Jesus the Christ, from whom all blessings flow. I would like to thank each of you who have participated to make this 82nd Fourth District Talent Hunt Demonstration one of the best yet. I know that the young people as well as the rest of us appreciate the time, tireless effort and support that your parents go through, just to make sure you are equipped with what you need to succeed, and I know their enjoyment is watching you give back with your hard work and God given talent. Always remember with God All things are possible! This evening we have an opportunity to witness truth, witness hard work, and recognize parental sacrifice, as we witness greatness in the making. So often we get caught up with the cares of the world, but “Greater is He that is within us than he that is in the world” 1 John 4:4 So leave all your cares on the outside and come inside and enjoy the talent that God has placed on this earth. It is with that encouraging message that I salute the contestants, the parents and the individual support teams , that have worked diligently to make it to this point. You have done an amazing job. The International Talent Hunt Program is only successful because of the many brothers at the local, state, district, and international levels who work tirelessly to implement the highest quality talent hunts that showcase the best and the brightest young people in the visual and performing arts. Brothers, we thank you and appreciate your efforts and positive energy! We also express a hearty thanks to the Omega Life Membership Foundation, Inc., and the international headquarters of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. for their endorsement. Brother Elder David L. Reliford 35th Fourth District Representative
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Office of the 4th District 1st Vice Representative Bro. Mike West April 29th 2023 Brother Shaw and Committee, On behalf of the office of First Vice District Representative, I extend congratulations to the Talent Hunt Committee and extend best wishes for a successful Talent Hunt Demonstration. The talent of the youths showcased overthe years under your leadership has always been top notch and only showcases the level of engagement from your Committee Chairs throughout the 4th District. I am extremely pleased with this year's talent and look forward to seeing a deserving student compete on the international level representing the 4th District. I appreciate the work ofthe committee to showcase theirtalents and provide them with scholarship money to furthertheir education. Itis our prayerthat as they grow and excel,they will use theirtalents and gifts to strengthen theirrespective schools, homes and communities.I look forward to attending the Talent Hunt Showcase at the 82nd Fourth District Meeting as we celebrate the outstanding talentfrom our young future leaders, scholars and artists of tomorrow. Thank you for years of continuous service as Talent Hunt Chair Fraternally, Brother Mike West 1st Vice District Representative
April 29, 2023 Welcome to the 2023 Calvin H. Thomas Fourth District Talent Hunt Program. I greet you in the spirit and words of former Four District Talent Hunt Chairman the late Brother Calvin H. Thomas. *In memory of Brother Calvin H. Thomas – Zeta Omega and Zeta Kappa Kappa Chapters, Cleveland, Ohio (The following are excerpts from a 1996 4th District Talent Hunt Report from Bro. Calvin H. Thomas) “The highlight of any District meeting is the Talent Hunt Program. It brings into concert families, friends, brothers, associates, national officers, visitors, and community activist. We as Brothers have a vehicle to really showcase the talents of our high school students. With the escalation of college fees going higher each year, we must explore every area in which we can secure grants or scholarships. Omega’s Talent Hunt gives students each year, a chance to demonstrate their talent abilities.” “This year marks over 25 years of participation with the 4th District Talent Hunt. I can name a few who have made it big time…Debra Byrd, (with Barry Manilow, now doing solo work, movie and television work, and nite club, etc., Levert (Gerald, Eddie(O’Jays) outstanding vocalist and recording artist, Vincent Phillips (former College professor of Music, North Carolina) Barbara Saxton (Violinist) formerly with Cleveland Womens Sextet now living in South Africa.” I now share with you the words and vision from our current International Talent Hunt Chairman Brother Larry C. Pough who stated in the Special Edition of the 2019 International Talent Hunt Program Booklet. “The Talent Hunt is the second oldest mandated program of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. Over the years we have attempted to increase the brand visibility of Omega’s Talent Hunt Program, not only at the chapter, state, and district levels, but also internationally. It is our hope that when people hear the name Omega, they will immediately associate it with gifted artistic students and the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity’s International Talent Hunt Program. In the coming months members of the Talent Hunt will be requesting your support to help make our vision a reality. The name Talent Hunt should be synonymous with Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and the Performing Arts.” As the current Calvin H. Thomas Fourth District Talent Hunt Chairman I thank you for your indulgence as I reflected on the words of two giants in the Talent Hunt world of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. I would also like to say thank you to everyone here in attendance and I ask you to join us witness firsthand this evening the making of the likes of future Debra Byrd, Eddie and Gerald Levert, Vincent Phillips, and Barbara Saxton. To Brother Calvin H. Thomas, I hope we are making you proud of the Calvin H. Thomas Fourth District Talent Hunt Program’s progress over the last 27 years. To Brother Larry C. Pough, it is a pleasure to serve and work Larry C. Pough Chairman Carlton Lampkins Co-Chairman Michael Fletcher 1 st District Andrew J. Huff, Jr. 2 nd District Owen Nixon 3 rd District Mark C. Shaw 4 th District Charles L. Duke 5 th District Willie Forrest, Jr. 6 th District David Carter 7 th District Verne Wilson 8 th District Rod Delph 9 th District Jefferey Smith, Sr. 10th District JD McDowell, II 12th District Cortez Pree 13th District Crispin Abad Member at Large Paul Anderson II Member at Large Galvin Crisp, Jr. Member at Large Ernest Goode Member at Large Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Office of the 4th District Talent Hunt Chairman Bro. Mark C. Shaw 4147 Leppert Rd. – Hilliard, OH 43026 – [email protected] (614) 531-7748
with you to: 1) Make Omega associated with gifted artistic students and the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity’s International Talent Hunt Program. 2) Make the name Talent Hunt synonymous with Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and the performing arts. Finally, thank you to all of the participating chapters and their Talent Hunt chairmen for all of their efforts and hard work to make the 2023 Talent Hunt season a success. Thank you to the Talent Hunt students and their families for participating in the various Talent Hunt programs this year. Last but not least. Thank you to the emcee, adjudicators, and guests. For without you this event would not be possible. Sincerely, Mark C. Shaw, Chairman Calvin H. Thomas Fourth District Talent Hunt Program
Anna King Anna King is social media manager, content creator, and news reporter from South Carolina. She started her collegiate journey at the University of South Carolina in 2016 and graduated in 2019 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Broadcast Journalism. While there, she took on the roles of producer for SCETV, campus correspondent for CheddarU, a national news network, and many other positions as well. In 2021, Anna moved to West Virginia to become a local news reporter for WOWK 13 News where she was given the opportunity to cover the stories of those in the West Virginia, Kentucky, and Ohio Tri-State. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, spending time with her family, and volunteering in the community.
Joshua O’Dell Josh O’Dell currently serves as Director of Choirs and Assistant Professor of Music at West Virginia State University. Before coming to State, he served as Chorus Master/Director of Education & Community Engagement at Opera Roanoke, Director of Sales at the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra, Artistic Director/Founder of the Voices of Appalachia (Roanoke, VA), and served as Minister of Music for churches throughout Virginia, North Carolina, and Florida. Josh also held a Music Faculty position at Radford University where he taught Music Theory. Josh has completed doctoral studies in Choral Conducting and Pedagogy and holds a Master of Music in Choral Conducting from Messiah University, a Bachelor of Science in Music from Radford University, and a Certificate in Sacred Music from Virginia Wesleyan University with additional graduate studies in Choral Conducting at the Shenandoah Conservatory of Music. He has served as a clinician for church music workshops and as an Adjudicator for All-District and All-State Chorus Auditions, as well as serving as a judge for the Bland Music Competition for the Lions Club of Virginia. In May 2017, Josh led the Thrasher Memorial Sanctuary Choir in a concert tour to New York City, where they premiered a new work at David Geffen Hall, Lincoln Center. The choir returned to NYC in April 2018 to perform with the Virginia Wesleyan University Choir at Carnegie Hall. Josh made his conducting debut at Carnegie Hall in July 2022 with a choir of almost 100 singers from Virginia and Florida. The choir consisted of members of his various church choirs and also included members of the Roanoke Valley Children’s Choir.
Marshall Petty As a preacher’s son, Petty grew up with gospel music. But even as a young boy, his heart belonged to rhythm and blues. He started out on guitar, then found an old saxophone. It was love at first notes. Something about those sounds, almost like a human voice, hooked him hard. In high school at Cedar Grove, in the Army in Germany, in Minnesota, in Ohio, in college at West Virginia State, wherever he went, he played in a band. For years, he toured with jazzblues organist Winston Walls. At 78, he still exudes a joyful and infectious passion for music. Blues blood still races through his veins as smooth and strong as those high notes on his saxophone solos. While in Minnesota, Marshall traveled with a band playing for people like Martha Reeves and the Vandellas when they came to town and needed a backup band. While serving in the Army as radio operator in Germany, he played with a band called the Solomon C. Kenner Group, German civilians, and couple of GIs. Marshall states that he had a great two years in the service. After serving in the Military, he finished school graduating from West Virginia State majoring in sociology and psychology. Marshall has played with many bands over the years such as the Rockaways in Ohio, the Hearttones in West Virginia, the Truetones at Bluefield State, and the Dynamic Impressions at West Virginia State. Currently, he performs with Marshall Petty and the Groove a jazz and R & B group. They were the introductory band for President Barack Obama when he first came to Charleston, West Virginia.
Dr. Carline Waugh Carline Waugh is a Jamaican-born soprano acclaimed for her ability to mesmerize audiences. This powerful singing actor performs throughout the USA, Italy, Russia, her homeland of Jamaica and other parts of the world singing solo recitals, opera, and oratorio. She has recently appeared on the operatic and concert stage with such companies as the International Opera Theatre, Missouri Symphony, Jefferson City Symphony, the Colombia Choral Union, Wichita Grand Opera, the Volgograd Philharmonic Orchestra, St. Petersburg Symphony Orchestra, and the Haverford Singers. Carline has recently sung leading roles in the international Italian premiers of the operas Buffalo Soldiers, Songo Di Una Notte Di Mezza Estate, and the cantata Hilegard Von Bingen and Black Madonna. Her other recent roles include Mimí in Puccini’s La Boheme, Gretel from Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel, Liu from Turandot, Zerlina from Don Giovanni, Valencienne from The Merry Widow, Polly from Die Dreigroschenoper, and Gianetta from The Gondoliers. Her recent concert repertoire includes Samuel Barber’s Knoxville: Summer of 1915, Brahms’ A German Requiem, Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess, Dubois’ Seven Last Words of Christ, Mozart’s Requiem in D minor, and J.S. Bach’s Magnificat in D Major. She will sing Micaëla in Bizet’s Carmen this season with the Atlanta-based Peach State Opera. She earned a Bachelor of Music Performance at Atlantic Union College where she studied voice with Ms. Faith Esham and had Dr. Kaestner Robertson as her academic advisor for the degree program. She earned a Master of Music Performance at the University of Mississippi where she studied with Ms. Nancy Maria Balach. Carline went on to earn a Doctor of Musical Arts in Vocal Performance from Louisiana State University where she studied with Dr. Loraine Sims.
She has been a winner of competitions including the Monroe Symphony’s Marjorie Stricklin Vocal Competition, the Beethoven Club of Memphis Vocal Competition, Thayer Young Artist Competition, the National Association of Teachers of Singing Regional Competition, the Classical Singer Regional Competition, and the Young Artist Competition sponsored by the National Association of Business and Professional Women’s Club of Long Island. She has recently been a finalist in the Opera Ebony Vocal Competition in New York and was a regional winner for the New York Lyric Opera Competition. Ms. Waugh has received scholarship awards from foundations including the CHASE Fund, the Music Club of Baton Rouge, and the Baton Rouge Opera Guild.
2023 Calvin H. Thomas 4th District Talent Hunt OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY, INC. Laura Bates Vocal Solo Cleveland Central Catholic High School Junior Zeta Kappa Kappa Chapter Cleveland, Ohio
2023 Calvin H. Thomas 4th District Talent Hunt OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY, INC. Trinity Thrasher Instrumental Solo The School for Creative and Performing Arts Junior Beta Iota Chapter Cincinnati, Ohio
2023 Calvin H. Thomas 4th District Talent Hunt OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY, INC. Rameer Askew Dramatic Interpretation Ginn Academy Junior Zeta Omega Chapter Cleveland, Ohio
2023 Calvin H. Thomas 4th District Talent Hunt OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY, INC. Khali Moore Vocal Solo Sylvania Southview High School Freshman Xi Tau Chapter Toledo, Ohio
2023 Calvin H. Thomas 4th District Talent Hunt OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY, INC. Tia Ward Instrumental Solo Centennial High School Junior Eta Nu Nu Chapter Columbus, Ohio
2023 Calvin H. Thomas 4th District Talent Hunt OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY, INC. Alexandria Plear Vocal Solo Capital High School Sophomore Xi Alpha Chapter Charleston, West Virginia
2023 Calvin H. Thomas 4th District Talent Hunt OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY, INC. Nathaniel Davis Instrumental Solo Fort Hayes Arts & Academic High School Junior Mu Iota Chapter Columbus, Ohio
2023 Calvin H. Thomas 4th District Talent Hunt OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY, INC. Maya Waite Vocal Solo Spring Valley Academy High School Junior Delta Alpha Chapter Dayton, Ohio
Fourth District Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. “Friendship is Essential to the Soul.” 3951 Snapfinger Parkway Decatur, GA 30035 www.omega4thdistrict.org FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Talent Hunt Committee Mark C. Shaw, Chairman (614) 531-7748 [email protected] Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. to host Calvin H. Thomas Fourth District Talent Hunt Competition Charleston, WV (April 1, 2023) — Since its first Talent Hunt Program held on April 19, 1946, in Charlotte, North Carolina the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. has provided financial assistance to thousands of students throughout the United States and abroad. High School students representing the various cities throughout Ohio and West Virginia will perform in the areas of vocal music, drama, instrumental music, dance, and art. These students have advanced have advanced from local competitions in order to qualify to participate in the state level of competition at the Calvin H. Thomas Fourth District Talent Hunt Program. The winner of the District Talent Hunt will advance to the 2023 Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Virtual International Talent Hunt Demonstration (viewing date and time to be determined). This year’s Calvin H. Thomas Fourth District Talent Hunt program will be held on Saturday, April 29, 2023, at Embassy Suites by Hilton Charleston, 300 Court Street, Charleston, West Virginia 25301 at 6:30 P.M. This event is free and open to the public. About Talent Hunt The Talent Hunt is an internationally mandated program of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. The necessity for Talent Hunt was born out of the reality that there were limited opportunities afforded to some populations in the country for youth to give full expression to their artistic and creative abilities. The Talent Hunt provides exposure, encouragement, and financial assistance to talented high school students in grades 9 through 12. Students compete for scholarships and the opportunity to showcase their talent to a distinguished group of judges. Local, state, and district Talent Hunt programs are competitive. The international program is a demonstration of first-place winners from around the world. Mission The mission of the Talent Hunt is to identify the talented and motivated youth of our communities and to provide an appropriate competitive forum for the display of their talents in the areas of Music: Vocal and instrumental; classical, semi-classical, gospel and jazz; Interpretive Movement to Music: ballet, modern dance and tap; Speech: Poetry, orations, monologues, etc. and Art: Visual, sculptures and photography. The Talent Hunt provides exposure, encouragement and financial assistance to talented young people participating in the performing arts. Winners are given recognition awards and may receive college scholarships.
Visit https://oppf.org/talent-hunt/ for more information about the International Talent Hunt Program Please consider supporting the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. International Talent Hunt Program by making a tax deductible donation to the International Talent Hunt Foundation, Inc. About the International Talent Hunt Foundation. The ITHF was designated a 501(c)(3) foundation in December 2014 Vision: A world class organization dedicated to the development of youth in the performing and visual arts. Mission: To support and enhance projects, programs, and activities for talented and motivated youth in the performing and visual arts. Purpose: The foundation is organized for the purpose of providing financial support in collaboration with other organizations to advance the International Talent Hunt Program. Goal: Provide scholarships and support for high school students who participate in all forms of the visual and performing arts. Visit https://internationaltalenthuntfoundation.org for more information about the International Talent Hunt Foundation. About Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. was founded on November 17, 1911, at Howard University, and incorporated October 28, 1914, in Washington D.C. The fraternity has been active nationally and internationally for over 111 years. During that time, we have been involved in a variety of community activities such as Scholarship Programs; High School Essay Contests; Voter Registration, Education and Mobilization; Anti-Domestic Violence Initiative; Fatherhood Initiative in collaboration with the White House; Big Brothers, Big Sisters Initiative; Assault on Illiteracy; Habitat for Humanity; Mentoring Programs; and Health Initiatives which include programs such as the Charles R. Drew Blood Drive, HIV/AIDS Awareness, and participation in fundraisers for charities such as the American Cancer Society, American Diabetes Association, United Way, Sickle Cell Anemia, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital just to name a few. Visit https://oppf.org/ for more information about the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY, INC. TALENT HUNT HISTORY The Talent Hunt program of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is one of several national programs designed to identify and support the youth of our nation and world. The original idea was credited to Brother J. Alston Atkins of Winston Salem, North Carolina, and Brother Dewey Duckett of Rock Hill, South Carolina. While the idea was conceived in 1945, the first District Talent Hunt program was held in the Sixth District in Charlotte, North Carolina, on April 19, 1946. The need for such a program was born out of unequal opportunity afforded to some American youth to develop and give full expression to their talents. The success of the Talent Hunt program, especially in the Sixth District, from the standpoint of community interest and the scholarship assistance made available to the winners as a result of overwhelming public support, led to its adoption by the national organization. Talent Hunt, as a national program, made its grand debut in 1953 when the Fraternity featured the winners of the local and regional contests on a public program at the Grand Conclave in Cincinnati, Ohio. The original statement of the Talent Hunt idea included this expression: “Creative and outstanding capacities in any honorable activity should be eligible for consideration." During public presentations, all original displays were limited to the field of music. Since that time, the Talent Hunt program has been expanded to include other forms of the expressive arts. It is significant to note that prior to 1969, all participants in the Talent Hunt program were required to be high school seniors. The year 1969 appears on documents indicating a revision in the guidelines for the operation of Talent Hunt programs on every level. That revision expanded the level of participation to grades 9 through 12. The Talent Hunt Idea has become one of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity's National Projects, with all graduate chapters mandated to conduct an Annual Talent Hunt Program. On the Local and District levels, the project is competitive. At the National level the program is demonstrative. The National Program is made up of District Winners, who by their talent, diligence, ability and potential appear as Guests of the Fraternity. At this stage of our growth the Talent Hunt Idea is proceeding on the National level along three lines: 1) At each session of the Grand Conclave and Leadership Conference, a Talent Hunt demonstration is presented to the public. 2) In addition, Omega is also interested in what it calls a "Fundamental Search for Talent." Here the Fraternity hopes to develop the process and resources through which it can help discover and provide assistance, as may be needed, to young people who have shown and possess talents of outstanding and exceptional quality. The field of interest will not be limited to music but all areas of the performing arts. 3) In our projected planning we hope to further encourage the Contestants on our Talent Hunt Programs by recommending them to our chapters and other organizations throughout the United States for presentations in their respective communities. The Talent Hunt Program of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity has touched thousands of students, many of whom have gone on to make outstanding contributions to their communities and to our world. Many have earned scholarships, awards, and recognitions through exposure from this program. Talent Hunt Contestants have appeared on the Ted Mack Original Amateur Hour, the Apollo Theater, Radio City Music Hall, Philadelphia Academy of Music, Philadelphia Civic Center, New York City, Washington, DC Centers for the Performing Arts, the Eastman Theater, etc. The Talent Hunt Program has been very rewarding to Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and many talented youth. We will continue to search for and support our gifted youth.
District Representative 1st Vice District Representative 2nd Vice District Representative District Keeper of Records & Seal District Keeper of Finance District Counselor District Director of Public Relations District Keeper of Peace District Chaplain District Chief of Security Immediate Past District Representative Chief of Staff District Marshal David L. Reliford Mike West Nahshon Webb Kendric Jackson Tomier T. Davenport Walter T. Madison Marcus Bethay Hal Dumas Theopolis Washington Effram Speigner Lamar T. Cole Corey Grubbs Eric L. Jackson 4th District Officers
Brother Thomas was associated with the 4th District Talent Hunt Program for over 30 years. He had been affiliated with the International Talent Hunt Program for numerous years. He was a community activist who had been honored locally, statewide, and nationally for his civic participation. Brother Thomas received the following awards: Citizen of the Year (Mt. Pleasant Community Council), Most Treasured Volunteer (Cuyahoga County) and Man of the Year (General Motors). He was a graduate of Wilberforce University. Brother Thomas was initiated into Omega Psi Fraternity in 1946 through Phi Sigma Chapter (Case Western Reserve University). He held the office of Fourth District Keeper of Record & Seal. He also served as Chapter Vice Basileus, Achievement Week Chairman, and Social Action Chairman as he was a member of both Zeta Omega and Zeta Kappa Kappa Chapters in Cleveland, OH. Brother Thomas served on many Boards including: Cuyahoga County Drug Board, Ward I Democratic Club, President Kingsford East Street Club, Planned Parenthood Review Board and President Emeritus of the Murtis H. Taylor Center. He was a member of William T. Boyd Lodge #79 Prince Hall F&AM, Neighborhood Centers Association, City Club and Mt. Pleasant Community Council. Brother Thomas was a member of Elizabeth Baptist Church and served over 50 years as an Omega Man. BROTHER CALVIN H. THOMAS A Tribute In Memory Of Past 4th District Talent Hunt Chairman 4th District Talent Hunt Committee Brother Kelvin Asberry .....................Zeta Kappa Kappa Chapter Brother Darryl L. Woods ............................... Beta Iota Chapter Brother Austin Hood..................................Zeta Omega Chapter Brother Alvin Smith………………………………….Zeta Omega Chapter Brother Frederick Pruitt………………………………….Xi Tau Chapter Brother Matthew Coleman…………………...………Eta Nu Nu Chapter Brother Jonathan Wesley……………...………………Xi Alpha Chapter Bro Stephen Jones.......................................... Mu Iota Chapter Brother Wendell Goodall.............................Delta Alpha Chapter Bro. Mark C. Shaw, Chairman……………...………….Mu Iota Chapter * Graphics by Brother Antonio Caffey Eta Nu Nu Chapter
Alexandria Plear, representing Xi Alpha Chapter, is a 16- year-old sophomore at Capital High School in Charleston, West Virginia. She is the daughter of Jeffrey and Tiffany Plear. Alexandria is a member of A More Excellent Way Life Center Church where she is on the Praise Team and in the choir. Her extracurricular activities include participating in Speech, Xinos, Theater, and serving as a youth leader. Alexandria has participated in many theatrical productions including, Hairspray, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The Hobbit, and Based on a Woo Story. She has recently performed at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, New York. Alexandria is currently undecided on which college or university she plans to attend. Tia Ward, representing Eta Nu Nu Chapter, is a 16-year-old junior at Centennial High School in Columbus, Ohio. She is the daughter of Cheryl Ward. Tia is a member of New Salem Baptist Church. She began playing violin at the age of 9. Currently, Tia plays at weddings, birthday parties, and various other events. She has performed alongside of Bobby Floyd, Black Violin, and Assia Ahhatt who is a violinist in Ukraine. Her extracurricular activities include participating in Urban Strings Columbus and volunteering in her community. Her hobbies include Designing and performing. Tia plans to attend either North Carolina A&T University or Belmont University. Nathaniel Davis, representing Mu Iota Chapter, is a 17-yearold junior at Fort Hayes Arts & Academic High School in Columbus, Ohio. He is the son of Troy and Cheryle Davis. Nathaniel’s hobbies are playing video games, playing the saxophone, and listening to music. His extracurricular activities include playing soccer, participating in Jazz Band, Concert Band, and Theatre Ensemble. Nathaniel has been playing the saxophone for seven years and enjoys different genres such as jazz, R & B, blues, and funk. His favorite artists include Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Luther Vandross, and the Temptations. Nathaniel loves to share his passion for music with other people. He plans to attend Columbus State or the University of Cincinnati. Maya Waite, representing Delta Alpha Chapter, is a 16-yearold junior at Spring Valley Academy High School in Dayton, Ohio. She is the daughter of Tubal and Ottelee Waite. Maya attends Centerville Seventh-day Adventist Church. Her extracurricular activities include participating in church and school choirs, basketball, volleyball, and Stem and Sci Fest. Maya’s hobbies include reading, singing, playing clarinet, piano and guitar. She plans to attend the St. Andrews University or Oakwood University. Talent Hunt History OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY, INC. The Talent Hunt program of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is one of several national programs designed to identify and support the youth of our nation and world. The original idea was credited to Brother J. Alston Atkins of Winston Salem, North Carolina, and Brother Dewey Duckett of Rock Hill, South Carolina. While the idea was conceived in 1945, the first District Talent Hunt program was held in the Sixth District in Charlotte, North Carolina, on April 19, 1946. The need for such a program was born out of unequal opportunity afforded to some American youth to develop and give full expression to their talents. The success of the Talent Hunt program, especially in the Sixth District, from the standpoint of community interest and the scholarship assistance made available to the winners as a result of overwhelming public support, led to its adoption by the national organization. Talent Hunt, as a national program, made its grand debut in 1953 when the Fraternity featured the winners of the local and regional contest on a public program at the Grand Conclave in Cincinnati, Ohio. The original statement of the Talent Hunt idea included this expression: Creative and outstanding capacities in any honorable activity should be eligible for consideration." During public presentations, all original displays were limited to the field of music. Since that time, the Talent Hunt program has been expanded to include other forms of the expressive arts. It is significant to note that prior to 1969, all participants in the Talent Hunt program were required to be high school seniors. The year 1969 appears on documents indicating a revision in the guidelines for the operation of Talent Hunt programs on every level. That revision expanded the level of participation to grades 9 through 12. The Talent Hunt Program of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity has touched thousands of students, many of whom have gone on to make outstanding contributions to their communities and to our world. Many have earned scholarships, awards, and recognitions through exposure from this program. It is our unyielding commitment to support our youth.
PROGRAM Welcome................................................. ...Brother Mark C. Shaw 4th District Talent Hunt Chairman Invocation............................... ..Brother Theopolis Washington II 4th District Chaplain History of Talent Hunt………………………………………….Brother Jonathan Wesley Xi Alpha Talent Hunt Chairman Introduction of Emcee Emcee………………………………………………………………………………...Ms. Anna King News Reporter Judges Mr. Joshua O’Dell………………………………….West Virginia State University Mr. Marshall Petty………………………………..Marshall Petty and the Groove Dr. Carline Waugh……………………………………………………Marshall University Presentation of Contestants Laura Bates…………………………………………………………….Vocal Solo Zeta Kappa Kappa Chapter, Cleveland, Ohio Trinity Thrasher….………………………………………………………..Instrumental Solo Beta Iota Chapter, Cincinnati, Ohio Rameer Askew….…………………………………..............Dramatic Interpretation Zeta Omega Chapter, Cleveland, Ohio Khali Moore….………………………………….....................................Vocal Solo Xi Tau Chapter, Toledo, Ohio Tia Ward.................................................... ……...Instrumental Solo Eta Nu Nu Chapter, Columbus, Ohio Alexandria Plear .................................... ………………………..Vocal Solo Xi Alpha Chapter, Charleston, West Virginia Nathaniel Davis. ................................………………...Instrumental Solo Mu Iota Chapter, Columbus, Ohio Maya Waite ...........................................................……..Vocal Solo Delta Alpha Chapter, Dayton, Ohio Recognition of Parents and Relatives & Closing Remarks………………………………………Brother David L. Reliford 35th 4th District Representative Benediction ............................... Brother Theopolis Washington II 4th District Chaplain Laura Bates, representing Zeta Kappa Kappa Chapter, is a 16-year-old junior at Cleveland Central Catholic High School in Cleveland, Ohio. She is the daughter of Laura Maholtz. Laura is a member of St. John Nepomucene Church. Her hobbies are creating art, playing video games, and watching movies. Laura’s extracurricular activities include participating in Poetry Club, Drama Club, Video Game Club, Link Crew, and being a Student Ambassador. Laura plans to attend Baldwin Wallace University and major in art and Music. Rameer Askew, representing Zeta Omega Chapter, is a 17- year-old Junior at Ginn Academy in Cleveland, Ohio. He is the grandson of Felicia Smart. Rameer is a member of Greater Friendship Baptist Church. His extracurricular activities include being the starting defensive end for the 2022 Glenville High School State Championship Football Team. Rameer’s hobbies include poetry and participating in the performing arts. He plans to attend the University of Cincinnati and major in Communications or Education. Khali Moore, representing Xi Tau Chapter, is a 15-year-old freshman at Sylvania Southview High School in Sylvania, Ohio. He is the son of Michael and DeShanna Alexander. Khali is a member of United Vision Baptist Church. His hobbies are singing and making bead bracelets. Khali’s extracurricular activities include participating in Toledo Excel, Upward Bound, Alpha Esquires, and serving as Chaplain of TeenU at his church. He plans to attend a Historically Black College or University. Trinity Thrasher, representing Beta Iota Chapter, is a 17-year-old junior at The School for Creative and Performing Arts in Cincinnati, Ohio. She is the daughter of Tamara Thrasher. Trinity is a member of Turning Point Church. She began playing the viola at the age of 8 starting in an orchestra that was free for kids in her neighborhood. At the age of 13 Trinity auditioned and became a member of the Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles, which was an experience that changed her life. Currently she is a member of the Cincinnati Symphony Youth Orchestra. Her hobbies include Music, shopping, traveling, and hanging out with friends. Trinity plans to attend Belmont University and major in Music Education.
PROGRAM Welcome................................................. ...Brother Mark C. Shaw 4th District Talent Hunt Chairman Invocation............................... ..Brother Theopolis Washington II 4th District Chaplain History of Talent Hunt………………………………………….Brother Jonathan Wesley Xi Alpha Talent Hunt Chairman Introduction of Emcee Emcee………………………………………………………………………………...Ms. Anna King News Reporter Judges Mr. Joshua O’Dell………………………………….West Virginia State University Mr. Marshall Petty………………………………..Marshall Petty and the Groove Dr. Carline Waugh……………………………………………………Marshall University Presentation of Contestants Laura Bates…………………………………………………………….Vocal Solo Zeta Kappa Kappa Chapter, Cleveland, Ohio Trinity Thrasher….………………………………………………………..Instrumental Solo Beta Iota Chapter, Cincinnati, Ohio Rameer Askew….…………………………………..............Dramatic Interpretation Zeta Omega Chapter, Cleveland, Ohio Khali Moore….………………………………….....................................Vocal Solo Xi Tau Chapter, Toledo, Ohio Tia Ward.................................................... ……...Instrumental Solo Eta Nu Nu Chapter, Columbus, Ohio Alexandria Plear .................................... ………………………..Vocal Solo Xi Alpha Chapter, Charleston, West Virginia Nathaniel Davis. ................................………………...Instrumental Solo Mu Iota Chapter, Columbus, Ohio Maya Waite ...........................................................……..Vocal Solo Delta Alpha Chapter, Dayton, Ohio Recognition of Parents and Relatives & Closing Remarks………………………………………Brother David L. Reliford 35th 4th District Representative Benediction ............................... Brother Theopolis Washington II 4th District Chaplain Laura Bates, representing Zeta Kappa Kappa Chapter, is a 16-year-old junior at Cleveland Central Catholic High School in Cleveland, Ohio. She is the daughter of Laura Maholtz. Laura is a member of St. John Nepomucene Church. Her hobbies are creating art, playing video games, and watching movies. Laura’s extracurricular activities include participating in Poetry Club, Drama Club, Video Game Club, Link Crew, and being a Student Ambassador. Laura plans to attend Baldwin Wallace University and major in art and Music. Rameer Askew, representing Zeta Omega Chapter, is a 17- year-old Junior at Ginn Academy in Cleveland, Ohio. He is the grandson of Felicia Smart. Rameer is a member of Greater Friendship Baptist Church. His extracurricular activities include being the starting defensive end for the 2022 Glenville High School State Championship Football Team. Rameer’s hobbies include poetry and participating in the performing arts. He plans to attend the University of Cincinnati and major in Communications or Education. Khali Moore, representing Xi Tau Chapter, is a 15-year-old freshman at Sylvania Southview High School in Sylvania, Ohio. He is the son of Michael and DeShanna Alexander. Khali is a member of United Vision Baptist Church. His hobbies are singing and making bead bracelets. Khali’s extracurricular activities include participating in Toledo Excel, Upward Bound, Alpha Esquires, and serving as Chaplain of TeenU at his church. He plans to attend a Historically Black College or University. Trinity Thrasher, representing Beta Iota Chapter, is a 17-year-old junior at The School for Creative and Performing Arts in Cincinnati, Ohio. She is the daughter of Tamara Thrasher. Trinity is a member of Turning Point Church. She began playing the viola at the age of 8 starting in an orchestra that was free for kids in her neighborhood. At the age of 13 Trinity auditioned and became a member of the Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles, which was an experience that changed her life. Currently she is a member of the Cincinnati Symphony Youth Orchestra. Her hobbies include Music, shopping, traveling, and hanging out with friends. Trinity plans to attend Belmont University and major in Music Education.
Alexandria Plear, representing Xi Alpha Chapter, is a 16- year-old sophomore at Capital High School in Charleston, West Virginia. She is the daughter of Jeffrey and Tiffany Plear. Alexandria is a member of A More Excellent Way Life Center Church where she is on the Praise Team and in the choir. Her extracurricular activities include participating in Speech, Xinos, Theater, and serving as a youth leader. Alexandria has participated in many theatrical productions including, Hairspray, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The Hobbit, and Based on a Woo Story. She has recently performed at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, New York. Alexandria is currently undecided on which college or university she plans to attend. Tia Ward, representing Eta Nu Nu Chapter, is a 16-year-old junior at Centennial High School in Columbus, Ohio. She is the daughter of Cheryl Ward. Tia is a member of New Salem Baptist Church. She began playing violin at the age of 9. Currently, Tia plays at weddings, birthday parties, and various other events. She has performed alongside of Bobby Floyd, Black Violin, and Assia Ahhatt who is a violinist in Ukraine. Her extracurricular activities include participating in Urban Strings Columbus and volunteering in her community. Her hobbies include Designing and performing. Tia plans to attend either North Carolina A&T University or Belmont University. Nathaniel Davis, representing Mu Iota Chapter, is a 17-yearold junior at Fort Hayes Arts & Academic High School in Columbus, Ohio. He is the son of Troy and Cheryle Davis. Nathaniel’s hobbies are playing video games, playing the saxophone, and listening to music. His extracurricular activities include playing soccer, participating in Jazz Band, Concert Band, and Theatre Ensemble. Nathaniel has been playing the saxophone for seven years and enjoys different genres such as jazz, R & B, blues, and funk. His favorite artists include Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Luther Vandross, and the Temptations. Nathaniel loves to share his passion for music with other people. He plans to attend Columbus State or the University of Cincinnati. Maya Waite, representing Delta Alpha Chapter, is a 16-yearold junior at Spring Valley Academy High School in Dayton, Ohio. She is the daughter of Tubal and Ottelee Waite. Maya attends Centerville Seventh-day Adventist Church. Her extracurricular activities include participating in church and school choirs, basketball, volleyball, and Stem and Sci Fest. Maya’s hobbies include reading, singing, playing clarinet, piano and guitar. She plans to attend the St. Andrews University or Oakwood University. Talent Hunt History OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY, INC. The Talent Hunt program of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is one of several national programs designed to identify and support the youth of our nation and world. The original idea was credited to Brother J. Alston Atkins of Winston Salem, North Carolina, and Brother Dewey Duckett of Rock Hill, South Carolina. While the idea was conceived in 1945, the first District Talent Hunt program was held in the Sixth District in Charlotte, North Carolina, on April 19, 1946. The need for such a program was born out of unequal opportunity afforded to some American youth to develop and give full expression to their talents. The success of the Talent Hunt program, especially in the Sixth District, from the standpoint of community interest and the scholarship assistance made available to the winners as a result of overwhelming public support, led to its adoption by the national organization. Talent Hunt, as a national program, made its grand debut in 1953 when the Fraternity featured the winners of the local and regional contest on a public program at the Grand Conclave in Cincinnati, Ohio. The original statement of the Talent Hunt idea included this expression: Creative and outstanding capacities in any honorable activity should be eligible for consideration." During public presentations, all original displays were limited to the field of music. Since that time, the Talent Hunt program has been expanded to include other forms of the expressive arts. It is significant to note that prior to 1969, all participants in the Talent Hunt program were required to be high school seniors. The year 1969 appears on documents indicating a revision in the guidelines for the operation of Talent Hunt programs on every level. That revision expanded the level of participation to grades 9 through 12. The Talent Hunt Program of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity has touched thousands of students, many of whom have gone on to make outstanding contributions to their communities and to our world. Many have earned scholarships, awards, and recognitions through exposure from this program. It is our unyielding commitment to support our youth.
Brother Thomas was associated with the 4th District Talent Hunt Program for over 30 years. He had been affiliated with the International Talent Hunt Program for numerous years. He was a community activist who had been honored locally, statewide, and nationally for his civic participation. Brother Thomas received the following awards: Citizen of the Year (Mt. Pleasant Community Council), Most Treasured Volunteer (Cuyahoga County) and Man of the Year (General Motors). He was a graduate of Wilberforce University. Brother Thomas was initiated into Omega Psi Fraternity in 1946 through Phi Sigma Chapter (Case Western Reserve University). He held the office of Fourth District Keeper of Record & Seal. He also served as Chapter Vice Basileus, Achievement Week Chairman, and Social Action Chairman as he was a member of both Zeta Omega and Zeta Kappa Kappa Chapters in Cleveland, OH. Brother Thomas served on many Boards including: Cuyahoga County Drug Board, Ward I Democratic Club, President Kingsford East Street Club, Planned Parenthood Review Board and President Emeritus of the Murtis H. Taylor Center. He was a member of William T. Boyd Lodge #79 Prince Hall F&AM, Neighborhood Centers Association, City Club and Mt. Pleasant Community Council. Brother Thomas was a member of Elizabeth Baptist Church and served over 50 years as an Omega Man. BROTHER CALVIN H. THOMAS A Tribute In Memory Of Past 4th District Talent Hunt Chairman 4th District Talent Hunt Committee Brother Kelvin Asberry .....................Zeta Kappa Kappa Chapter Brother Darryl L. Woods ............................... Beta Iota Chapter Brother Austin Hood..................................Zeta Omega Chapter Brother Alvin Smith………………………………….Zeta Omega Chapter Brother Frederick Pruitt………………………………….Xi Tau Chapter Brother Matthew Coleman…………………...………Eta Nu Nu Chapter Brother Jonathan Wesley……………...………………Xi Alpha Chapter Bro Stephen Jones.......................................... Mu Iota Chapter Brother Wendell Goodall.............................Delta Alpha Chapter Bro. Mark C. Shaw, Chairman……………...………….Mu Iota Chapter * Graphics by Brother Antonio Caffey Eta Nu Nu Chapter
District Representative 1st Vice District Representative 2nd Vice District Representative District Keeper of Records & Seal District Keeper of Finance District Counselor District Director of Public Relations District Keeper of Peace District Chaplain District Chief of Security Immediate Past District Representative Chief of Staff District Marshal David L. Reliford Mike West Nahshon Webb Kendric Jackson Tomier T. Davenport Walter T. Madison Marcus Bethay Hal Dumas Theopolis Washington Effram Speigner Lamar T. Cole Corey Grubbs Eric L. Jackson 4th District Officers
International Talent Hunt Foundation, Inc. (ITHF) Congratulates Fourth DISTRICT CONFERENCE Best Wishes To District Talent Hunt Chairman Mark C. Shaw & All Talent Hunt Competition Contestants “Enhancing Culture Through The Arts” Board of Directors Daniel B. Jones, Sr., Chairman Crispin A. Abad, Sr., Vice Chairman Mark C. Shaw, Secretary Timothy E. Waters, Treasurer Matthew B. Coleman, Director Charles L. Duke, Director Francois R. Fils-Aime, II, Director Ernest R. Goode, Jr., Director Dennis Jeter, III, Director Carlton Lampkins, Ed. D., Director Larry C. Pough, Director William Ross, Jr., Ed. D., Director Edwin D. Smith, Director Consider A Donation to ITHF as a part of your 2023 Charitable Giving. Text To Donate 302-548-0911, type THDISTRICT in the message line, make a donation and select your district from the dropdown menu. www.INTERNATIONALTALENTHUNTFOUNDATION.org